LB Devin Bush has one year remaining on his Steelers contract – he’s due $3m in 2022 – plus a fifth-year option.
But his time in black and gold might run out sooner.
Bush was benched in favor of Robert Spillane on Tennessee’s final possession Sunday.
Bush was a first-round pick. Spillane is an undrafted free agent.
Bush has a lot more talent. But Spillane plays better.
Bush is coming off knee surgery. But Spillane has had knee problems this season.
Spillane played 34 out of 80 defensive snaps vs. Tennessee. Twenty-two were in the second half. Tomlin said Spillane was on a “pitch count” because of his knee. (Bush played 53 snaps.)
Give Tomlin credit. Benching Bush for Spillane with the game on the line is the right move. Bush’s effort is spotty, he can’t tackle or cover, and his football IQ in minimal. Spillane has a lot less ability, but he doesn’t betray it.
If I’m Bush, I rent. I don’t buy. Spillane might not replace Bush permanently, but somebody will.
UPDATE: Bush has been placed on the Steelers' covid list. Bush will survive, and so will the Steelers.